iPadOS, Apple’s dedicated operating system for iPad, was officially introduced in 2019 with the release of iPadOS 13. Prior to that, iPads ran a version of iOS, which was originally designed for iPhones. As the iPad grew more powerful and gained hardware capabilities that set it apart—like larger displays, support for Apple Pencil, and external keyboard compatibility—it became clear that the iPad needed its own software direction. Apple rebranded the iPad’s OS to iPadOS to reflect this shift, offering new features like improved multitasking, a more desktop-like Safari experience, and support for external drives.
Since its debut, iPadOS has steadily evolved to bring more Mac-like functionality while retaining a touch-first design. iPadOS 14 introduced streamlined design elements and Scribble for Apple Pencil, while iPadOS 15 enhanced multitasking with the Shelf, App Library, and new multitasking controls. iPadOS 16 marked a major step forward for M1-powered iPads by bringing Stage Manager, which allowed resizable windows and overlapping app views—blurring the line further between tablet and laptop. The OS also introduced desktop-class apps and system-wide enhancements to collaboration, file handling, and external display support.
By the time iPadOS 18 arrived in 2024, Apple had fully embraced the idea of the iPad as both a creative and productivity tool. The update brought Apple Intelligence features (on supported iPads), improved handwriting recognition, and expanded customization options. Over time, iPadOS has become a platform that sits squarely between macOS and iOS—borrowing strengths from both to create a unique experience tailored to the iPad’s versatility. Its development has mirrored the evolving identity of the iPad itself: a device capable of being both an entertainment hub and a serious tool for work and creation.
Liquid Glass Redesign
iPadOS 26 introduces a bold new visual identity through Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design language. Inspired by visionOS and macOS Tahoe, this aesthetic refresh transforms the interface with translucent, fluid layers and adaptive icons that respond to context and interaction. The entire system feels more polished and modern, with rounded elements and glass-like textures that enhance depth and hierarchy across the user interface.
A Full macOS‑Style Windowing System
One of the most transformative changes in iPadOS 26 is the debut of a full macOS-style windowing system. Users can now open multiple resizable windows with familiar traffic-light-style controls for closing, minimizing, and maximizing apps. A swipe-down gesture reveals a macOS-like menu bar, enabling quick access to app-specific tools and system options. The new Exposé feature gives users an overview of all open windows and spaces, making multitasking smoother and more intuitive. This upgrade replaces the older Split View and Slide Over systems, while still maintaining Stage Manager support on compatible models.
Improved Files App
The Files app in iPadOS 26 receives significant productivity enhancements. Users can now take advantage of a new list view featuring resizable columns and collapsible folder hierarchies. Customization is deeper, with the ability to assign colors, icons, or emojis to folders, which sync across all Apple devices. For even quicker access, folders can be pinned directly to the Dock. Additionally, users can now set default apps to open specific file types, giving the iPad even more desktop-like behavior.
Preview App (macOS‑Style)
A long-awaited addition, the Preview app finally makes its way to iPad. This powerful tool allows users to view and annotate PDFs and images, sign documents, create quick sketches, and perform other markup tasks—all with either Apple Pencil or touch input. It brings a familiar macOS utility to iPad users who need robust document interaction on the go.
Four New Pre-Installed Apps
iPadOS 26 introduces four major new Apple apps, previously available only on other platforms. The Phone app syncs with your iPhone to allow calls, voicemail access, Call Screening, Hold Assist, and Live Translation. Journal is a rich, Apple Pencil-optimized journaling tool for writing, sketching, voice notes, and location tagging. Games consolidates Apple Arcade, Game Center, events, and leaderboards into a unified dashboard with an in-game overlay. Lastly, Preview(mentioned above) is now included by default, rounding out iPad’s utility suite.
Audio, Video, and Background Enhancements
Under-the-hood improvements in iPadOS 26 boost both performance and media capabilities. The new Background Tasks API allows apps to run long processes in the background, with real-time updates via Live Activities. Local Capture supports high-fidelity audio and video capture, including HEVC video and FLAC audio formats—perfect for creatives and professionals. Advanced audio routing lets users select input/output sources on a per-app basis, with support for Voice Isolation and high-quality recording through AirPods or external mics.
Creative & Productivity Tools
Several key tools have been upgraded to better serve students, artists, and professionals. A new reed pen input mode allows stylized handwriting and calligraphy using Apple Pencil. The built-in Calculator app now supports multi-variable equations and 3D graphing. Notes can import and export in Markdown format and even record phone conversations with transcriptions powered by Apple Intelligence. The Shortcuts app is now more powerful than ever, with smart automations that generate images, summarize documents, and more. Meanwhile, Safari introduces rounded floating tabs, enhanced privacy protections, HDR image support, and improved SVG handling.
Messaging, FaceTime & Accessibility Upgrades
Communication and accessibility get significant attention in iPadOS 26. Live Translation is now available in FaceTime, Messages, and Phone, making conversations more inclusive across languages. Messages supports new features like user-created polls, custom chat backgrounds, real-time typing indicators, and better spam filtering. FaceTime adds hold assist, unknown-caller screening, and live-translated captions. Accessibility expands with tools like Braille Access, Accessibility Reader, multilingual live captions, Name Recognition via sound, Assistive Access, and the ability to export and share accessibility configurations across devices.
iPadOS 26 supports a wide range of iPads but officially drops support for models using the A10 Fusion chip and older. That means the iPad (7th generation) and earlier are no longer eligible for the update. The iPad (8th generation) and newer remain fully supported, including the 9th and 10th generation models.
In the iPad mini lineup, both the 5th and 6th generation models are supported. These devices are compact but still powerful enough to meet the system requirements of iPadOS 26, though they do not support the new Apple Intelligence features.
For the iPad Air, all models from the 3rd generation onward are compatible. However, only the iPad Air (5th generation), which features the M1 chip, supports Apple Intelligence. The 3rd and 4th generation Air models can install iPadOS 26 but do not have access to those AI-enhanced features.
The iPad Pro lineup sees broad compatibility. All models from the 3rd generation 12.9-inch and 1st generation 11-inchonward are supported. However, only iPad Pros with Apple Silicon chips—specifically M1, M2, and M4—support the full Apple Intelligence suite. That includes the iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch (M4, 2024), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (5th and 6th generation), and 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation) and newer. Earlier iPad Pros with Intel-based A-series chips can run iPadOS 26, but they miss out on the AI capabilities.
In short, if you have an iPad with at least an A12 Bionic chip, you’re eligible for iPadOS 26. But if you’re looking to take full advantage of Apple Intelligence, you’ll need a device powered by M1 or newer.
| iPad Model | Supported? | Apple Intelligence? |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (10th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad (9th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad (8th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad (7th generation) | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| iPad mini (6th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad mini (5th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Air (5th generation, M1) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| iPad Air (4th generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Air (3rd generation) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Pro 13″ (M4, 2024) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| iPad Pro 11″ (M4, 2024) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9″ (6th gen, M2) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9″ (5th gen, M1) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| iPad Pro 12.9″ (4th gen) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Pro 12.9″ (3rd gen) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Pro 11″ (3rd gen) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Pro 11″ (2nd gen) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| iPad Pro 11″ (1st gen) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
To prepare for upgrading to iPadOS 26, start by confirming your iPad is compatible. iPadOS 26 requires at least an A12 Bionic chip, so you’ll need an iPad (8th generation or newer), iPad mini (5th generation or newer), iPad Air (3rd generation or newer), or an iPad Pro from 2018 or later. If your iPad is older—like the 7th generation iPad—it won’t support the update. Checking compatibility first ensures you don’t waste time trying to install software your device can’t run.
Next, it’s essential to back up your iPad before installing any major software update. You can back up using iCloud by going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup, then selecting Back Up Now. Alternatively, you can connect your iPad to a Mac or PC and use Finder or iTunes to create a local backup. This step protects your data in case something goes wrong during the update process.
Once your data is backed up, make sure your iPad is fully charged or plugged in. The update process can take 30 minutes or more, and losing power mid-installation could cause issues. You’ll also want to connect to a stable Wi-Fi network before downloading the update, as it’s a large file and can take a while to download. Apple doesn’t recommend using cellular data for major updates, both for speed and reliability.
It’s also a good idea to free up some storage space. iPadOS 26 may require 5–8 GB of available space to install, so head to Settings > General > iPad Storage to review what’s taking up room. Deleting unused apps, offloading old files, or moving photos and videos to iCloud or a computer can help you reclaim space quickly.
Before installing the update, take a moment to learn what’s new in iPadOS 26. This version introduces a redesigned interface called Liquid Glass, a full macOS-style windowing system, and new apps like Journal, Games, and a full Preview app. If you have an iPad with an M1 chip or newer, you’ll also get Apple Intelligence features, including Genmoji, Smart Replies, and on-device summarization. Being aware of these changes can help you adapt quickly once the update is installed.
To ensure your favorite apps remain functional, visit the App Store and update them to the latest versions. Many developers optimize their apps for new system features, so installing the latest versions ahead of time can improve compatibility and performance on iPadOS 26.
If you’ve been running a beta version of iPadOS 26, be sure to remove the beta profile before installing the final version. You can do this by going to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management, then deleting the beta profile. This ensures you’ll receive the stable public release.
Lastly, choose the right time to install the update. Since the process can take a while, plan to upgrade when you won’t need your iPad for anything urgent. Avoid installing updates while traveling or during work hours in case anything goes wrong and your device needs extra time to restore.
By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth, secure upgrade to iPadOS 26 and ready to enjoy its new features.
Yes, while iPadOS 26 brings many exciting enhancements, there are a few legitimate reasons you might choose not to upgrade right away—especially if stability, compatibility, or workflow consistency is critical to you.
One of the biggest reasons to hold off is app compatibility. Although most developers work quickly to update their apps for the latest version of iPadOS, some may lag behind—particularly smaller developers or those with niche tools. If you rely on specific apps for work, education, or creative projects, it’s worth confirming that they are fully compatible with iPadOS 26 before upgrading. Incompatibilities can result in crashes, lost features, or reduced performance.
Another factor to consider is device performance on older iPads. While iPadOS 26 supports models with A12 chips and newer, older devices—like the 8th generation iPad or the iPad Air (3rd generation)—may not experience the same level of fluidity and responsiveness as newer, M-series iPads. The new windowing system, for example, adds complexity that could feel sluggish on lower-end hardware. If your iPad already struggles under iPadOS 15 or 16, it may be wise to wait and see how 26 performs for other users with similar devices.
Some users may also prefer to wait for early bugs to be resolved. Major iPadOS releases often come with small but noticeable bugs that affect usability, battery life, or Bluetooth and Wi-Fi reliability. Apple typically releases minor updates within the first few weeks (e.g., iPadOS 26.0.1 or 26.1) to patch these issues. If your iPad is mission-critical—used in live settings, education, or client-facing work—it can be a safer strategy to wait until the initial dust settles.
There’s also the matter of learning curve and workflow disruption. iPadOS 26 replaces familiar multitasking methods like Split View and Slide Over with a new macOS-style windowing system. While this may be a major step forward for many users, others may find the adjustment frustrating or unnecessary—especially if they’ve become comfortable with the older interaction model. If your productivity depends on muscle memory and routine, the switch might initially slow you down.
Lastly, some features—particularly Apple Intelligence tools like Genmoji, Smart Reply, and on-device summarization—require M1 or newer chips. If your iPad doesn’t support these features, you won’t benefit from some of the most exciting additions. In that case, the incentive to upgrade may be weaker, especially if you’re satisfied with your current setup under iPadOS 17 or 18.
In summary, while iPadOS 26 is a major step forward in many ways, it’s not necessarily the right move for everyone right away. If your iPad is older, your apps are essential, or your workflows depend on stability and consistency, it may be wise to wait a few weeks, check compatibility reports, and see how the community responds before making the leap.
Apple’s decision to jump from iPadOS 18 directly to iPadOS 26, skipping the intermediate numbers like 19 through 25, is part of a broader strategy to unify version numbers across its major operating systems. This alignment helps emphasize the growing integration between iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS, reflecting how the iPad is evolving beyond a simple tablet operating system into a powerful, versatile platform. By matching the version numbers with macOS (which recently reached macOS 26 Tahoe) and visionOS, Apple signals that these platforms share a common foundation and vision for the future.
Another important reason for the jump is to highlight the scale and significance of the update. iPadOS 26 is not just a routine annual release; it introduces major new features like a full macOS-style windowing system, new apps, and Apple Intelligence capabilities. By leaping ahead in version numbers, Apple communicates that this release is a foundational upgrade on par with big macOS updates, rather than a minor incremental change. This helps set user expectations and generates excitement around the new capabilities.
From a marketing perspective, higher version numbers often give an impression of maturity and innovation. Skipping several versions can make the update feel more momentous and impactful to users. It distinguishes the latest software clearly from prior releases, making it easier to create buzz and highlight the advancements Apple has made.
Finally, the alignment also benefits developers and the broader Apple ecosystem. Having consistent version numbering across iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS reduces confusion about which features and APIs are available on which platforms. It simplifies development, documentation, and communication, helping the community understand how the platforms relate and evolve together.
In summary, the jump to iPadOS 26 is about more than just counting updates—it reflects Apple’s vision of the iPad as a first-class computing device integrated tightly with the rest of its ecosystem, marking a major milestone in its software evolution.
iPadOS 26 represents Apple’s most ambitious effort yet to close the gap between the iPad, iOS (iPhone), and macOS (Mac computers), bringing these platforms closer together in both design and functionality. Traditionally, iPadOS has occupied a middle ground—more powerful and flexible than iOS but not quite as desktop-class as macOS. With this release, Apple has taken big strides to unify the user experience while retaining the unique strengths of the iPad.
One of the biggest changes in iPadOS 26 is the introduction of a full macOS-style windowing system. Unlike iOS, which is designed primarily for single-app or simple multitasking, iPadOS 26 lets users open multiple resizable windows with familiar macOS traffic-light controls for minimizing, maximizing, and closing apps. It also adds a macOS-like menu bar accessible via a swipe, along with an Exposé overview for managing windows and spaces. These features bring the iPad’s multitasking closer to the powerful desktop workflows Mac users expect, making the iPad a more capable productivity device without sacrificing touch and Apple Pencil support.
Visually, iPadOS 26 adopts the “Liquid Glass” design language seen in macOS Tahoe and visionOS, giving the interface a translucent, layered look that creates depth and cohesion across Apple’s platforms. This cohesive design language helps users feel at home switching between iPad, iPhone, Mac, and even Apple’s mixed-reality devices.
Despite these desktop-class upgrades, iPadOS 26 retains the fluid touch-first experience of iOS and iPadOS. It supports Apple Pencil, touch gestures, and optimized apps designed for a tablet’s screen size. The addition of new apps like Phone, Journal, and Preview—previously Mac-only—bridges functionality gaps while keeping the iPad’s unique input methods front and center.
In terms of Apple Intelligence features like Live Translation, smart summaries, and voice transcription, iPadOS 26 shares capabilities with both iOS and macOS, but also leverages the iPad’s hardware—especially on M1 and newer chips—to provide smooth, on-device processing. This brings a consistent, intelligent experience across all platforms, tailored to each device’s strengths.
In summary, iPadOS 26 narrows the divide by borrowing powerful windowing and multitasking concepts from macOS, adopting a unified design language, and integrating intelligent features that run seamlessly on Apple’s latest chips. At the same time, it preserves the fluid, touch-centric interaction model that makes the iPad unique, positioning it as a versatile bridge between mobile and desktop computing.
